Advanced Services, Inc. will hire approximately 50 people in the next few weeks as it begins its second round of hiring for the Rapid City customer service center this week.

Approximately 45 consumer advocates, along with two to four team leaders and a team manager will be hired, according to Carol Bancroft, ASI senior vice president and manager of the Rapid City call center.

Applications must be made online at www.applytoasi.com. Bancroft advises previous applicants to re-apply. Anyone who encounters a problem with the online application process can call ASI at 388-4001.

“I’m delighted to hear that ASI is ready to take on more staff,” Gov. Mike Rounds said in a news release. “As the economy begins to rebound, announcements like this from quality companies like ASI are vital.”

A wholly owned subsidiary of General Electric, ASI announced plans to bring 160 new jobs to the community in November. The company plans three additional hiring waves in April, June and July.

When fully staffed, the call center will employ 380 to 400 people, Bancroft said. Bancroft said the expansion is part of the company’s long-term strategy and the jobs will stay in the community.

The first round of new hires has completed training and will begin taking calls on Feb. 22, Bancroft said.

“We were very pleased with the caliber and number of applications we received during the wave of hiring in November and December,” Bancroft said. “They definitely exemplify all of the attributes that we are looking for.”

Consumer advocates start at $10 an hour, Bancroft said. Advocates must be customer service oriented with positive mindset. They must be passionate about helping GE customers and willing to always put them first, she said. Advocates must be able to embrace change and be very good at problem solving, Bancroft said.

ASI offers employees four to six weeks of paid training; medical, vision and dental insurance, paid vacations, 401K and tuition reimbursement.

“This is one of the most competitive benefits packages in the community,” Bancroft said.

Contact Andrea Cook at 394-8423 or andrea.cook@rapidcityjournal.com.